Soccer-Ancelotti keen to remain at Real beyond 2026

(Reuters) – Carlo Ancelotti recently signed a two-year contract extension with Real Madrid and expressed his desire to stay with the club beyond 2026. The 64-year-old has been with Real Madrid since 2021, having previously managed the club from 2013 to 2015. During his time with the club, he has secured one league title, two Champions League trophies, and two Club World Cups.

In a press conference ahead of a home game against Mallorca, Ancelotti spoke about his contract extension, saying, “My contract was up on June 30. The club has decided to do it now because they’re happy with our work. I don’t know if it will be my last spell as a coach. I don’t know what will happen once I finish here. I might still be here in 2026, depending on how successful I am. I’d like to be Madrid coach until 2026, and hopefully I can continue to be here in 2027 and 2028 because I want to stay here.”

Prior to signing the extension, Ancelotti had been linked with the Brazilian national team. Ex-Brazilian FA (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues reportedly said he was the preferred candidate for the job. However, Ancelotti made it clear that staying at Real Madrid was his priority.

Ancelotti spoke about the potential opportunity to coach Brazil, saying, “I was proud to be considered, but it was all dependent on my situation with Real Madrid and that it was all clear. Ednaldo is not the president right now and everything has gone the way I wanted because I’m able to stay here. Thinking about being the Brazil coach was exciting, but I don’t know if they will want me in 2026. I don’t know if they will be happy with this decision.”

Real Madrid currently lead LaLiga on goal difference ahead of Girona after 18 games. Ancelotti’s extension with the club ensures continuity in his leadership, and his desire to remain with Real Madrid until at least 2026 has been expressed.

(Reporting by Aadi Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)